Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Sunday that the Diamondbacks reached an agreement to sign right-hander Zack Littell, though the team had not issued an official confirmation at the time of those reports.
- Littell was designated for assignment by the Washington Nationals last week, cleared waivers and became available to sign, which limits Arizona to paying only a prorated share of his salary.
- The club plans to use Littell as a swingman and long-relief option to provide multi-inning depth and emergency starts while Michael Soroka returns and injured arms like Zac Gallen and Corbin Burnes continue their rehabs.
- Littell has struggled in 2026 with a 4.97 ERA over 112 1/3 innings but posted strong, innings-eating seasons in 2024–25 and relies on a five-pitch mix that could benefit from Arizona’s strong defense.
- The signing follows the D-backs’ failure to land a starter at the trade deadline and signals a short-term roster strategy that reduces financial risk and keeps the club flexible for further moves.